Published by Hodder & Stoughton, London; 2006. 8vo. 339pp. First edition, first impression. Condition: Fine/Fine
Bound in original black cloth boards with title in silver to the spine. The binding is square and tight and in beautiful condition, with no marks or damage. Inside, the pages are clean and bright and free from blemishes and wear, the book appearing barely read.
The book is housed in its original first issue dust jacket, which is in equally smart condition. It is vibrant and bright with just a touch of bumping to the top of the spine.
In all, this is a lovely example of this modern first by le Carre. It is one of his post Cold War novels, set against the backdrop of the chaotic East Congo. It tells the story of the planning of a Western-backed coup in the province of Kivi, told from the point of view of the hapless interpreter. It is, by turn thriller, love story and comic allegory of our times. It recounts Salvo's heroically naïve journey out of the dark Western hypocrisy, and into the heart of lightness (blurb).